Mindful Drawing with Nettie Zan

The Artspace is pleased to offer The Big Draw, a fun afternoon of art activities designed for audiences of all ages. Each session offers participants high-level instruction from local artists, opportunities for informal interaction and exchange, and a shared learning experience. The Big Draw sessions are free, and all materials are provided. Children under age 14 should be accompanied by an adult.

Join Nettie Zan for a playful, one-hour journey blending mindfulness and drawing. This beginner-friendly session invites you to slow down, tune in, and explore creative expression through unconventional exercises. We’ll experiment with writing backwards, drawing with our eyes closed, and creating images inspired by sound. These imaginative practices cultivate presence, curiosity, and a deeper connection between mind, body, and creativity. No artistic experience is needed—just a willingness to explore. Come as you are, and discover the joy of process over perfection in a supportive space that honors every way of perceiving and expressing. This program is appropriate for adults and children ages 5 and up.

RSVP: Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so reserve your spot now through Eventbrite. Email cmJsb2Nrc29tZSB8IGtjYWkgISBlZHU= or call 816-802-3300 for questions. If you register in advance and later find that you will be unable to attend, please cancel your registration through Eventbrite to open up a spot for another participant. The Art + Practice series may be subject to change, so for the latest information, follow us on Instagram @artspace_kcai and Facebook @artspacekcai or visit www.kcai.edu/artspace.

About the Artist: Nettie Zan is a trans non-binary multi-modal artist whose work fuses painting, poetry, ritual, and meditation. Rooted in ecology, spirituality, and community, their trance-induced visual art evokes petroglyphs, natural forms, and animist symbolisms. Their art channels myth, grief, and recovery as doorways to presence and connection. They integrate healing practices into their creative work, drawing on experiences as a teacher, parent, river guide, and explorer. Nettie trained at the Marina Abramović Institute and has held residencies across the U.S. and Europe. Through public rituals, open mics, and nature-based art, Zan offers spaces for collective reflection and transformation. Follow @listenmore or read more at nettiezan.com.

Mindful Drawing with Nettie Zan is organized by the Emily & Todd Voth Artspace as part of its 2025 Kansas City Flatfile & Digitalfile programming. The 2025 Kansas City Flatfile & Digitalfile is on view at the Artspace June 20–Sept. 27, 2025.

Images (above): What Is Priceless; How Strange; Dragon Wanted; Stay Present; and Idealist; all by Nettie Zan. Images courtesy of the artist.

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